What are the benefits of Pranayama?
Pranayama has fundamental physiological effects on the body. The greater intake of oxygen: improves circulation, cleanses the lungs, purifies the blood and organs and promotes a “remarkable resistance to disease and causes subtle chemical changes to take place in the body.” In addition, there is a cleansing effect on the nadis (our actual circulatory system) which are the channels for vital energy. Pranayama also prevents the decay of the nadis and brings about changes in mental attitude, possibly alleviating depression and allowing us to think with more clarity. Yogic breathing also causes a systemic release of tension of the external body, such as the skin, facial muscles, the organs of perception and the the internal—the brain. Ultimately, the sadhaka (the practioner) attains robust health and longevity. Energy: more oxygen Clarity: clears the mind, eases distracting thoughts Cleansing: Cleanses the nadis, removes toxins from the body Relaxing: releases tension and bound areas of
